If you’re traveling the place you rest your head at night can eat up a big chunk from your spending budget. But worry not, there’s plenty of ways to find secure, affordable and cozy accommodation.
Traveling with kids doesn’t always mean taking the cheapest option We want to get the most value for dollars. We’re not as down for roughing it as we used be, but we still would like to save money.
What you do and where you decide to stay depends on several factors, including:
- Your budget
- Your destination
- Your travel style and comfort level
- Your size team
- Your interests are important to you
Remember that getting 15% off an accommodation you don’t like isn’t the same than paying full price for a place you do. Our goal is to help you save money on accommodation and get an accommodation that you are happy with.
As as a family, we’ve changed up our accommodation preferences throughout the years. When we travel for longer periods, we prefer apartments as they come with bedrooms that are separate from the kitchen, as well as laundry facilities. Furthermore, we can share the cost of our trip with our friends or families. However, for shorter stays, we’re more than happy to stay in hostels or hotels that are family-friendly.
If you’re planning to take an extended trip across the globe, you should consider taking a longer trip to places where your money goes further and lower your standards in more costly countries.
Here are 18 tips for scoring great lodging deals:
Location, location, location!
It doesn’t make sense to find a cheap hotel if it’s miles away from everything and you have to spend extra on transportation. Find hotels in central locations near public transportation, airports and other things to do such as beaches, restaurants, and parks.
Stay for more than one night
Many places offer better deals if you stay for more than two nights. Sometimes you can even stay four nights and only pay for three nights.
Stay at the hotel on Sunday
Hotels tend to be less crowded on Sundays which means you’re likely to get a bargain. Also, if you book on Sunday, you’ll avoid the crowds at check-in and checkout on Fridays and Mondays.
Weekdays are your friend
In certain cities, such as Las Vegas, hotels are cheaper during the week than weekends. Also, try to avoid the crowds and save cash by traveling midweek.
Off-season is when the best season is
It’s no surprise that hotels tend to be more expensive during off-season. If you can travel during shoulder seasons (between high and low), you can save money as well as avoid crowds, and have decent weather.
Compare prices across different booking sites
Do not book on the first site you come across. Compare the prices on multiple websites to ensure you’re getting the most value for money.
Sign up for loyalty programs
A lot of resorts and hotels have loyalty programs through which members earn rewards or discount on your next stay.
Pre-book or book last-minute
Sometimes, making reservations earlier can get you a better deal or, in other instances, waiting to the end of the day can result in a lower rate.
Do not be afraid to bargain
When you book directly through a hotel or vacation rental, don’t be intimidated to ask for an improved rate or additional facilities. There’s no way to know if they might even say yes!
Look for vacation rental deals
Vacation rentals, like apartments or homes, can be ideal for families or groups. And many times, they can be less expensive than booking several hotel rooms.
Benefit from credit card rewards
If you own a credit card that has travel rewards, utilize them to pay for lodging and save even more money.
Check for hidden fees
Hotels or booking sites may charge extra for things like cleaning or resort fees, so be sure to read the fine print before making a booking.
Find discounts or promotions
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer promotions or discounts for things like military personnel, students, as well as AAA members.
Check for hidden gems
Sometimes, the most affordable deals can be found in smaller hotels, independent establishments or rental properties that aren’t as well-known.
Look for pet-friendly options
If you’re planning a trip with your pet, look for pet-friendly options. These places may offer discounts or special offers for guests who have pets.
Utilize social media
Many hotels and vacation rentals offer discounts or special offers that they advertise on social media. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Consider a home-sitting arrangement or house-swapping
Housesitting, also known as home swapping, is when you exchange houses with another person which allows you to reside in their house while they reside in yours. It can be a wonderful method to save on accommodation while still being in your space.
Consider renting a campervan or RV
If you’re traveling with your family or group renting a campervan or RV could be the best option to save on accommodations. Additionally, you’ll be able to explore different places and also have your own transportation all in one!
Use a travel agent
Travel agents can often access discounts and deals which aren’t accessible to the general public. Additionally, they are able to do the research and comparison shopping for you.
Book a package deal
Booking a hotel, flight and rental car together in a bundle deal can often save you money on each individual component.
Find hostels
Hostels can be a cost-effective choice for solo travellers or groups. In addition, with the rise of boutique hostels there are often safe, comfortable, and safe options.
Try home-sharing platforms
Home-sharing services like Airbnb and Vrbo provide more affordable and unique accommodation options, such as staying in a private room within a local’s home or renting a house for a large group.
In addition, Here are some suggestions to find cheap luggage:
Shop at discount retailers
Discount stores like T.J. Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls typically have a variety of luggage for sale at a discount. Be sure to go through these stores before you buy from a department store.
Find sales during off-season
Similar to accommodation It is not uncommon to find good deals on luggage during off-season or end-of-season sales. This is especially true for outdoor and travel gear stores.
Buy refurbished or used
You should consider purchasing used or used luggage. This is a fantastic option to save money on top-quality brands and you might be able to locate gently used luggage in near perfect quality. Websites like Amazon and Ebay offer a variety of options, and as well as local classifieds and garage sales.
In the end, finding cheap accommodation and discount luggage doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice the comfort or security. With a little bit of research and imagination it is possible to find an ideal accommodation within your budget as well as amazing deals on luggage for your next trip. By comparing prices and signing up for loyalty programs, making bookings early or last-minute, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, as well as looking at alternative options such as holiday rentals and home-sharing platforms to extend your budget and enjoy your travels to the maximum.